Was love in the air this Valentine’s Day and finding yourself newly engaged? Or perhaps you were waiting until the warmer weather to capture some beautiful engagement photos? Either or, here are some tips from our talented friend Carrie J. Photographer, to create engagement photos you’ll love for years to come.
1) Location is key! Usually I suggest picking 1-2 locations within 10 mins of each other for variety.
The best shoots are a combination of a simple location with great lighting. Good light plays a huge role in your session, this is why we schedule your shoot during a sunrise or a 1.5 hours before sunset. Golden hour is the best!
Think about what you guys like to do as a couple and where you would like to go exploring for your session. Do you want to go on a nature excursion or go somewhere urban and explore the nooks and crannies of a city? Do you want to dip your toes in the sand and go to a beach or have an in-home session with cuddles and coffee? The possibilities are endless. s
2). Outdoor vs. indoor sessions are both equally as fun. I do tend to lean towards outdoor sessions because I have much more space to get creative. If you decide on an indoor location, it’s best to think of spaces that have character and not too much clutter.
3). Hair and makeup is usually arranged by the bride-to-be. You might have a favourite makeup person or hair stylist you want to use. Although if you need help finding these vendors, photographers do have some preferred vendors that will work their magic for you and can send you their way.
4) Simplicity and style will speak volumes in your pictures. Build your wardrobe with style and don’t get carried away with props.
Your session location choice can be easily complimented with great style through wardrobe.
Stylish outfits will make your session the best it can be! I recommend bringing a change of outfit to your session so that your session will fully encompass your style.
Think about the colours of your potential location and choose outfits that compliment the scenery. A pop of colour/lightly accessorizing and layering can really make your photos pop. Your outfits should also be a reflection of you, and you should feel confident and amazing in what you decide to wear.
Smile for the Camera Gals!
I recommend getting a hair/makeup trial the same day as your shoot. Also, treat yo self! Go get a manicure so your hands will be all polished up and ready for those up close hand shots. Getting all dolled will boost your confidence and warm up to my rosy lens! Complimenting with accessories is the perfect way to bring your outfits together – whether it be wearing a dress in a neutral palette popped with a oversize necklace, or a dark jeans/plaid shirt with a lovely hat.
Smile for the Camera Gents!
Get all groomed up. You can always start with a great fitted button up shirt. Don’t be afraid of patterns and colours (just as long as they compliment your partners outfit), you can always think outside the box with a pair of coloured pants! Please avoid baggy shirts/clothes, polos, sandals and sneakers. Don’t wear anything with logos as well.
5). Your photographer should make you feel comfortable and happy, as cliche as is sounds – it’s important to “click” with your photographer. My primary goal is to ensure we have the most fun and get amazing imagery that reflects you guys as a couple! As for delivery – every photographer is different. I provide your high resolution images in an online gallery for downloading. Sessions usually yield around 100 images.
6) It’s only natural for couples to feel nervous or hesitant towards getting photographed. It truly is a vulnerable experience – and you don’t get photographed all the time! Your photographer should be able to make you feel at ease – that’s why I say it’s a good thing to go do something together. Maybe we start by grabbing a coffee/beverage and chat before we start our session! Again that’s why it’s important to “click” with your photographer. If you feel like you’re being photographed by a good friend it will make your experience all the better!
And now you’re ready to smile for the camera!
Don’t forget while you’re here to sign up for our Birthday Club and receive a $20 Gift Voucher for your Birthday!